Illinois Governor JB Pritzker expressed deep concern over the Trump Administration's approach towards immigrants in the state. Pritzker described the threats of arresting and deporting law-abiding immigrants as 'quite disturbing' during a recent statement.
The Democratic governor emphasized that the individuals being targeted are often long-time residents who contribute to their communities by holding down jobs and raising families. He questioned the rationale behind going after individuals who are not causing any harm and stressed the importance of providing a pathway to citizenship for them.
Pritzker also addressed the Trump administration's memo targeting state and local officials in sanctuary cities. He highlighted that Illinois law prohibits local officials from cooperating with federal immigration authorities without a warrant, a measure aimed at protecting residents from arbitrary enforcement actions.
According to Pritzker, the focus should be on removing violent criminals from the country while safeguarding law-abiding immigrants who are integral parts of society. He criticized the notion of targeting individuals based on their appearance or ethnicity, emphasizing the need for a more humane and sensible approach to immigration enforcement.
The governor's stance reflects a broader debate surrounding immigration policies and the treatment of undocumented individuals in the United States. Pritzker's remarks underscore the importance of balancing national security concerns with respect for the rights and dignity of all residents, regardless of their immigration status.